Getting A Dog
By Jenna Stregowski, RVT, About.com Guide to Dogs
Dogs are wonderful companions and can really enrich your life when you make the choice to add one to your family. Follow this path if you want to add a dog to your family, or if you aren't sure if a dog is right for you.
- Deciding Whether You Really Want A Dog ... Or Not.
- Yes, You Still Want a Dog
- Adopting a Dog - Shelters and Rescues
Deciding Whether You Really Want A Dog ... Or Not.
I truly believe that all potential dog owners need to have their eyes wide open when considering a dog. It's better for everyone if you really take the time to figure out if you are willing to put in the time, money, and commitment to training that every dog needs before you even start looking.
- What Age Of Dog Suits You Best?
- Convincing Your Landlord To Let You Have a Dog
- Reasons You Should Not get A Dog
Yes, You Still Want a Dog
You know you have the time and the commitment, now it's time to find out what kind of dog will fit you and your lifestyle. Use these pages to help you narrow that list until you see the dog you really want.
- Choosing The Right Type Of Dog
- Making Sure You Are Allowed To Get The Dog You want
- Wanting A Dog For Home Protection
Adopting a Dog - Shelters and Rescues
Adoption is one of those things that benefits everybody. A dog is removed from an unpleasant place, you get a new companion, shelter workers are pleased to help make a great match, and room is made at the shelter for another dog in need.
Dog Breeders
Buying a dog from the wrong place could result in years of pain and heartache for you and your dog. Don't make that mistake, and use these guidelines to help you find the best possible breeder for your new puppy.
- Why To Never Buy From A Petstore
- Signs You Need To Find A Different Dog Breeder
- Use Breed Clubs To Help You Find A Dog
- Finding a Dog Breeder
Choosing the Right Dog
You could actually pick a dog anywhere: newspaper ads, unethical breeders, and even off the streets (two of mine had come from litters that were given out at a grocery stores). So you don't really need to go through the time and research of finding a dog that will fit you, but I promise you, the extra time and patience is well worth the effort. Knowing what you want in a dog and what kind of dog is a good match for your lifestyle ensures that your new dog will be a part of your family for the rest of his life.
The Family Dog
Dogs and kids are a natural-seeming combination, and it just seems like the right thing to do - combine two species that possess almost limitless energy (children and puppies) and let them wear each other out in play. It's a sweet idea, but without proper care and supervision, and especially training for all participants, an afternoon of play can turn into a bloody disaster. Make sure you choose the right dog for your family to start with, and use these guidelines to help them grow into inseparable companions.
